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When Do Christmas Markets Start in Europe?
The start date for festive markets in Europe differs between specific towns and cities. While most begin in late November, to align with the start of Advent, others open earlier in the month due to demand. Similarly, most markets close just before Christmas Day, while others continue through the first few days of January. We recommend double-checking the specific opening and closing dates for your chosen markets before booking your hotel and transport.
Explore the 10 Best European Christmas Markets
Below, we’re sharing a list of the 10 best Christmas markets in Europe, whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking for something off the beaten track for an authentic experience. Are you heading to Europe from abroad? Check out our ranking of the 5 best international airlines to help plan your festive getaway.
1. Strasbourg, France
Where to stay: Hotel Saint Augustin
Strasbourg is famous for being the “Capital of Christmas” and is home to France’s oldest Christmas market, which has been going strong since 1570. If you want a traditional European experience, Strasbourg will tick all the boxes with its wooden chalets. The traditional market is known as Christkindelsmärik and sees over 2 million tourists annually.
Strasbourg is famous for being the “Capital of Christmas”.
Photo by ecstk22 on Shutterstock
2. Cologne, Germany
Where to stay: Legend Hotel
Known for its iconic twin-spired Cathedral, Cologne is one of Germany’s oldest cities. Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom market, located right next to Cologne Cathedral itself, is running from November 17th to December 23rdand is the perfect option for a day trip as it’s just an hour away from Frankfurt by train.
Known for its iconic twin-spired Cathedral, Cologne is one of Germany’s oldest cities.
Photo by Nikolay Kovalenko on Unsplash
It’s also worth visiting Heinzels Wintermärchen (The House Elves’ Winter Fairytale Christmas Market), nestled in the city’s old town district. If you’re traveling with kids, make a stop by Nicholas’ Village Christmas Market to see the life-sized crib and sample everything from gingerbread men to candy floss.
3. Budapest, Hungary
Where to stay: Vision Hotel
Budapest is the capital of Hungary and is quickly becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe as a budget-friendly alternative to cities like Paris or London. What we love about the main market in Vörösmarty Square is that it feels as if it’s frozen in time, untouched by the usual modern trends you’ll find at other markets.
Budapest is quickly becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.
Photo by Balate.Dorin on Shutterstock
Honey gingerbread (known as mezeskalacs) is one of the most popular treats, and look out for Hungarian pottery if you want an authentic souvenir to bring home.
4. Dresden, Germany
Where to stay: INNSiDE by Melia Dresden
While it’s not as famous as Berlin or Munich, Dresden is one of Germany’s most popular destinations for Christmas markets, welcoming an estimated 3 million tourists over the festive season. It’s home to one of the original German markets and has expanded to include almost 250 chalets.
Dresden is home to one of the original German markets, which has now expanded to include almost 250 chalets.
Photo by Feel good studio on Shutterstock
5. Barcelona, Spain
Where to stay: Seventy Barcelona
Barcelona often finds itself at the top of the list for must-visit cities in Europe. There are several markets open to the public throughout the city, including Fira de Santa Llúcia, and the market that’s located in front of the iconic Sagrada Familia basilica, which first opened in 1962.
Barcelona is often at the top of lists of must-visit cities in Europe.
Photo by BearFotos on Shutterstock
6. Helsinki, Finland
Where to stay: Clarion Hotel Mestari
If you want to embrace the Scandinavian “hygge” lifestyle, you’ll feel right at home when visiting a Christmas market in Helsinki. You’re almost guaranteed snow, but the Finnish lifestyle means you’ll have plenty of opportunity to indulge in relaxing activities like hitting the sauna or spa, in between visiting the markets.
Senate Square is the most famous option and opens from November 28th to December 22nd.
Photo by Finn stock on Shutterstock
7. Zurich, Switzerland
Where to stay: Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich
Zurich is one of the most luxurious cities in Europe and the perfect option if you’ve already visited popular markets in countries like Germany or France. While you’ll want a larger budget while visiting one of the continent’s most expensive cities, there’s plenty to explore in Zurich.
The Christmas village at Seschselautenplatz is located in front of the stunning opera house.
Photo by Octavian Lazar on Shutterstock
The Christmas village at Seschselautenplatz is located in front of the stunning opera house. Grab a glass of glühwein and look out for local designers who often sell their latest creations at these stalls.
8. Tromso, Norway
Where to stay: Clarion Hotel The Edge
If you want to avoid the tourist crowds you can expect in capital cities, a smaller destination like Tromso in Norway offers a more low-key option. Although it has a smaller celebration than what you’ll find in Oslo, Tromso is less than 250 miles from the Arctic Circle, giving you the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, as the festive season falls is considered the best time to spot them.
Tromso is less than 250 miles from the Arctic Circle, giving you the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights.
Photo by muratart on Shutterstock
9. Vienna, Austria
Where to stay: Residence Inn By Marriott Vienna City East
If you want to experience the old-world feel of a horse-drawn carriage and wander the corridors of historic palaces, look no further than Vienna. It’s a great option if you don’t want the Christmas market to be the main focus of your itinerary, while still getting a first-class, traditional experience. The most popular market can be found at the town hall; however, this is mainly to attract out-of-town tourists.
If you want to experience the old-world feel of a horse-drawn carriage and wander the corridors of historic palaces, look no further than Vienna.
Photo by mehdi33300 on Shutterstock
10. Prague, Czech Republic
Where to stay: Hotel Clement
Prague is one of the most underrated European cities for Christmas markets. Although there are several held throughout the city, you’ll find the most activity around the Old Town Square. This market is unique as it’s one of the few that is open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day with free admission. If you’re looking for an ice rink and live entertainment, stop by the Wenceslas Square market as well.
You’ll find the most activity around the Old Town Square.
Photo by ecstk22 on Shutterstock
Book Your Winter Wonderland Vacation with ZenHotels
At ZenHotels, we’re here to help you plan your dream winter vacation, whether you’re visiting a traditional market in Germany or traveling by train to visit multiple cities. Looking for other options for your next vacation? Explore top destinations on ZenHotels and get more expert-curated travel tips by visiting our blog.
